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The Istana (or "palace" in Malay) is built on an old nutmeg
plantation and was the former official residence of the
representative of the British Crown. Today, the Istana is
the official residence of the President of Singapore, and
the public gets to walk its expansive grounds only five
times a year.
Classical in style, ranging from the ornate Victorian
Renaissance to the simpler Roman Classical with touches of
Gothic, Chinese, Malay and other influences, the Istana is
indeed an imposing building.
Walk the stately grounds and be impressed by the gardens
where the superintendents of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
have personally planted most of the rare plants. Lay your
picnic mat, listen to the marching rhythm of the brass bands
and soak up the lively atmosphere.
Open: Accessible to the public only on these five
major public holidays:
Location: Orchard Road
Getting there: Take the MRT to Dhoby Ghaut Station
(NS24) and walk across Orchard Road.
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